Mustang
Fastback and Sportsroof models

The Mustang was initially
offered as a hardtop and a convertible. The 1965 fastback was introduced
in September 1964. The proportions of the FB are similar to the coupe
and convertible models. The front fenders, hood and doors are all
interchangeable. The wheelbase is the same on all three models. The
fastback featured a sloping, streaming rear roofline reminiscent of
early E type Jaguar and Porsche 356. The roof slopes down and ends
about half way back into the rear quarter panel. To accommodate the
roofline, the '65-'66 Mustangs have a shorter trunk lid and less storage
space than the coupe and convertible cars.

The FB was also called
the 2+2. This designation refers to the rear interior panel which
could be folded down flat for additional storage, or up for two more
seats. The legroom in the rear was cramped, not really suitable for
two adults on a long trip. When the seat was folded flat, you could
open a hinged trap door that gave you a continuous void space from
the trunk to the rear passenger compartment. This not only increased
the storage area, it was especially useful for carrying long items
such as fishing poles or skis.

The rear roof pillar incorporated
the "silent flow" vent, a triangular cut out that blended
with the roofline . The exterior of the vent sported six pillars that
look as ominous as a sharks gills ! Inside the car was a control knob
that opened and closed the vent.

The 1966 fastback kept
the same proportions as it's predecessor, with only minor cosmetic
trim changes. In 1967 all the Mustang were restyled. The roofline
of the '67-'68 fastback was extended all the way back to the rear
taillight panel. The trunk lid was incorporated into the rear roofline
. The car came standard with a rear seat. Unlike the earlier models,
the fold down version was an extra cost option.

Fastbacks are
meeting prices for comparable convertibles. Fewer early fastbacks
survived than convertible Mustangs. Many were hot-rodded to imitate
Shelby image, raced, wrecked , not preserved etc. Ford has re-released
the Shelby and other hi performance Mustangs, sparking interest in
the early cars. Notice how all the new Pony's resemble the fastback
!? Good driver condition cars will cost $26,0000 on up, more for K
code cars, Mach and other special editions. The Fastbacks will continue
to climb in value.